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The Ultimate Guide To Window Repair Bow
How to Repair a Bow Window

Architectural design for residential homes is incomplete without projection windows. They enhance the view and bring in natural light. They can be costly, however, especially in the case of wooden frames or are found in old homes.

Even for those with years of experience in home construction they can be difficult to install. This is because they typically require structural modifications to walls, and also work around electrical wiring.

Support Brackets

Bow windows have the potential to look stunning in a house, but they are vulnerable to sagging, particularly if they aren't well supported at the top and bottom. This is due to the fact that they're heavy, or even if it isn't, the fact they extend outwards from a wall makes them more vulnerable to gravity than other types of windows that are built into the wall itself.

Utilizing support brackets below the base is the ideal solution to repair bow windows that are sliding. Hardware stores sell these brackets which can be pushed slightly upwards under the base of the window, specifically in areas where sagging is evident. This will distribute weight from the window to the brackets, making it less likely to sag.

It is also important that the brackets be firmly connected to the wall. If you are using screws specifically designed for such brackets, then you can fix them securely into the wall. This will ensure that they are held securely in place, ensuring that they don't start to pull out from the wall.

Another good solution for a bow window that is sagging is to install a support cable under the top of the window. This will help remove some of the weight off the window's top and spread it across the wall into the foundations. This should help to reduce the sliding of the window and it should be able to do it without any major structural changes to the structure.

If your bow window is sliding in the middle, it's probably because the hinge at the top is misaligned with the rest of the window frame. This is due to the fact that the hinge has to support a heavy window, and in some cases this can cause it to flex in time, so that it isn't in alignment with the frame.

Support Cable

Bow windows can provide space to a room and let in light. However unlike bay windows that are supported by foundations, bow windows rely on the weight of their frames and platform boards to stay upright and can cause falling over time. This can make it difficult to open or close the window, and they could be crooked. It is essential to identify the reason for a bow window sagging so you can fix it.

Installing a support cable is the initial step to fix a bow window that has sagged. These are rods made of metal that are connected to the frame of the windows, and one end is attached to the eye on the top of the window, while the other is attached to the wall of the house (this could be a joist or nail, depending on the way your home was constructed). If you connect a cable at the bottom of the bow window the cable should tighten up and lift the sag. You can connect two cables so that they each take half the weight off the window. This will stop it from becoming too unbalanced.

If the bow window is sagging at the top, it's likely that the frame over time has warped or cracked and is now difficult to open and close. This could also impact their energy efficiency, and could also mean that the frame has become leaky or is drafty. In this situation it is recommended to repair the bow window before the damage worsens.

It's important to note that replacing or repairing the bow window is difficult and will require structural work to your home. If you're dealing with a historic home it is always recommended to work with a professional window contractor who is familiar with these types of installations. They can assist you in deciding whether you'd like to upgrade your bow window and make sure that the installation is completed correctly.

Repairing the Cable

Bow windows aren't built up as part of the house like bay windows, and they are susceptible to being sagging. A support cable carries some of the weight of the bow window and spreads it along the walls to the foundation. You can purchase an entire kit from your local hardware store, which includes a cable and the means to attach it securely to the wall. A kit is a cheaper alternative than buying the cable on its own.

You will first need to identify the area where the sagging is occurring. If it is near the bottom of the frame, you might require an additional sill plate while bowing to the outside might require additional brace bars. You'll need to decide whether the bow window can be operated or not. Operable windows will need the sash to be lifted and this could add significant weight.

Once you've determined the area where sagging is evident and where it is, you will require an extension cable. You must make sure that the cable is secure enough to lift some of the weight of the window, but not so tight that it snaps. It is a good idea to fit a pair of cables, so that one takes half the weight, while the other is able to support the rest of the window.

If the sagging is very close to the ground, it may be necessary to put in an additional header. The header is made up of two long two-by eights that can be very heavy. The header must be precisely measured and figured to fit between the King studs. To help lift the header up, you should have plenty of people available.

It is necessary to install insulation in the bow window area and also, you must close any gaps in the drywall surrounding it. This will reduce the amount cold air that is leaking in to your home. It is necessary to add soffits to the exterior of your home as well and will cost you between $250 and $765, depending on the size of these.

Fixing Brackets

Bow windows can add style and class to any home. They are similar to bay windows but do not have to be incorporated into foundations. Instead they can be put on the wall like any other window. However, if they're not maintained or supported in a proper manner, over time they can begin to shrink. This is a common problem which can be addressed but it will require a bit of support to achieve this.

You need to first identify the damage area. This can be done by taking a look at the bottom of the window. It is likely that the sagging has occurred because of the lack of support at the bottom of the window, and this will be what you need to address by addressing the issue.


You'll need some extra brackets for this. They should be placed under the bottom of the bow window and they should appear as tiny L shapes with thickened middles. You'll need to screw the brackets into your wall and attach an extension cord to them. The cable will take some of the weight off the bow window and will distribute it down the walls to the foundation.

After the cable is installed, it will need to be tightened. Make sure you make the cable as tight as you can but not too tight that it causes damage to the window frame or glass. Once it's secure you'll notice that the bow windows are being lifted.

If the sagging continues be evident, you may need to fit more support brackets or a support cable on the other side of the bow window. Do your research before you start to fix the bow window. You should also consult a professional prior to making any significant changes to your home's structure.

They're gorgeous additions to any house however, they can be challenging to maintain. It is recommended to clean your bow or Bay windows on a regular basis and conduct annual inspections. Also, you should clean the hardware regularly to remove dirt and grime, as well as lubricate moving parts to avoid sticking or scratching.

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